Many new laws are taking effect today, the start of the state’s fiscal year. One of those laws taking effect deals with texting and driving. Washington County Sheriff Chief Deputy Jared Schneider says the texting ban has been in effect since July 1st of last year, but starting today, citations can be issued.

He says the fines start in the $100 range and go higher depending on the age range. Another new law deals with Iowa’s boaters.

The new blood alcohol content for boat operators is lowering to .08, the same limit as driving a motor vehicle. Susan Stocker, Boating Law Administrator and Education Coordinator with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources says the new lower limit will hopefully lessen the combined effects of alcohol and wave action have on those operating boats.